Therapists in 98105

Photo of Julia Senft, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Julia Senft
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Online Only
My work focuses on supporting adults with anxiety/depression, ADHD/executive functioning support, stress management, navigating difficult changes/transitions, and building healthy relationships with yourself and with others. I emphasize a collaborative approach in my practice: you are the expert of your own experience. I tend to bring a human approach to my work and frequently use humor in my sessions (I'm absolutely the therapist who will laugh at your jokes- and then unpack them). I also fully endorse the concept that the therapeutic relationship itself has a great capacity for healing.
My work focuses on supporting adults with anxiety/depression, ADHD/executive functioning support, stress management, navigating difficult changes/transitions, and building healthy relationships with yourself and with others. I emphasize a collaborative approach in my practice: you are the expert of your own experience. I tend to bring a human approach to my work and frequently use humor in my sessions (I'm absolutely the therapist who will laugh at your jokes- and then unpack them). I also fully endorse the concept that the therapeutic relationship itself has a great capacity for healing.
(206) 944-5118 View (206) 944-5118
Photo of Barbara G. O'Brien, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Barbara G. O'Brien
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98105
Please note that I am currently full and not taking new patients. Thank you. Through my experience of being a therapist, I have come to believe that people change and grow through acceptance of where they are coupled with increasing awareness of areas in their lives that concern and/or constrain them. I work by listening carefully to my clients, seeking to understand their experience, and assisting them to be who they are while also helping them to shed or work with habits and patterns which are limiting them. I believe I am well-suited to being a therapist and I find the work very fulfilling.
Please note that I am currently full and not taking new patients. Thank you. Through my experience of being a therapist, I have come to believe that people change and grow through acceptance of where they are coupled with increasing awareness of areas in their lives that concern and/or constrain them. I work by listening carefully to my clients, seeking to understand their experience, and assisting them to be who they are while also helping them to shed or work with habits and patterns which are limiting them. I believe I am well-suited to being a therapist and I find the work very fulfilling.
(206) 397-0895 View (206) 397-0895
Photo of Natalie Sovde, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, SUDP, LMFT
Natalie Sovde
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, SUDP, LMFT
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Do you feel tired and feel as though life won’t let up? Maybe you’re noticing that you no longer roll with the punches like you used to. Or worse, you’re sleep deprived, your anxiety is shattering, and you feel like a hot mess. Maybe you don’t feel like you recognize the person in the mirror. All the while you dream of bouncing back to your old self – a person who can roll with the punches. As women we can take on the world, while leaving ourselves behind. Together we’ll plot out the life you want, create a action plan, and work through the roadblocks.
Do you feel tired and feel as though life won’t let up? Maybe you’re noticing that you no longer roll with the punches like you used to. Or worse, you’re sleep deprived, your anxiety is shattering, and you feel like a hot mess. Maybe you don’t feel like you recognize the person in the mirror. All the while you dream of bouncing back to your old self – a person who can roll with the punches. As women we can take on the world, while leaving ourselves behind. Together we’ll plot out the life you want, create a action plan, and work through the roadblocks.
(206) 495-6340 View (206) 495-6340
Photo of Maria Costello, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC
Maria Costello
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in working with individuals and couples struggling with addiction, trauma, and codependency. I understand the interconnected nature of these challenges and the profound impact they can have on one's life and ability to cope with day to day stressors. I work collaboratively with clients to navigate through their struggles and cultivate resilience, self-awareness, and empowerment. Whether you're seeking support in breaking free from addictive patterns, unraveling the dynamics of codependency, or healing from past traumas, I'm here to provide a safe and compassionate space for your journey towards healing.
I specialize in working with individuals and couples struggling with addiction, trauma, and codependency. I understand the interconnected nature of these challenges and the profound impact they can have on one's life and ability to cope with day to day stressors. I work collaboratively with clients to navigate through their struggles and cultivate resilience, self-awareness, and empowerment. Whether you're seeking support in breaking free from addictive patterns, unraveling the dynamics of codependency, or healing from past traumas, I'm here to provide a safe and compassionate space for your journey towards healing.
(206) 944-5536 View (206) 944-5536
Photo of John Ferraro, Counselor, LMHCA
John Ferraro
Counselor, LMHCA
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98105
Everyone has a story to tell. I want to create a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space where clients can tell their story, reflect on where they have been, and make intentional choices that will get them closer to where they want to be. It's important to me to work with the whole person and to acknowledge the interconnected systems that we move through every day that affect us, our relationships, and our environment. Through trust, curiosity, and reflection, I am excited to work with clients to tell their own story the way they want to tell it.
Everyone has a story to tell. I want to create a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space where clients can tell their story, reflect on where they have been, and make intentional choices that will get them closer to where they want to be. It's important to me to work with the whole person and to acknowledge the interconnected systems that we move through every day that affect us, our relationships, and our environment. Through trust, curiosity, and reflection, I am excited to work with clients to tell their own story the way they want to tell it.
(206) 222-6712 View (206) 222-6712
Photo of Katharine Meier, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW , MSW
Katharine Meier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW , MSW
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98105
Hi! My name is Kat. I am passionate about supporting people in building self-confidence, a sense of belonging, and skills to navigate life’s challenges. I provide a non-judgmental and collaborative space for individuals and families to grow towards living their most authentic lives. I enjoy working with teens and adults experiencing a wide range of challenges, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, major life transitions, grief, loss, communication skills, school and work related problems, and navigating boundaries.
Hi! My name is Kat. I am passionate about supporting people in building self-confidence, a sense of belonging, and skills to navigate life’s challenges. I provide a non-judgmental and collaborative space for individuals and families to grow towards living their most authentic lives. I enjoy working with teens and adults experiencing a wide range of challenges, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, major life transitions, grief, loss, communication skills, school and work related problems, and navigating boundaries.
(206) 222-7782 View (206) 222-7782
Photo of Kat Chen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kat Chen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Seattle, WA 98105
I work with individuals aged 16 and up, and I am committed to creating a collaborative and empowering therapeutic relationship. I believe that working together means uncovering your strengths, confronting challenges, and developing strategies that enhance your well-being and quality of life. Whether you're struggling with the pressures of school/family/society, the weight of past traumas, or the challenges of adapting to a new environment, I offer a personalized approach to help you navigate in the face of change.
I work with individuals aged 16 and up, and I am committed to creating a collaborative and empowering therapeutic relationship. I believe that working together means uncovering your strengths, confronting challenges, and developing strategies that enhance your well-being and quality of life. Whether you're struggling with the pressures of school/family/society, the weight of past traumas, or the challenges of adapting to a new environment, I offer a personalized approach to help you navigate in the face of change.
(206) 429-6798 View (206) 429-6798
Photo of Colleen Kelley Therapy Kelley - Colleen Kelley Therapy, LLC, Counselor, LMHC, CST
Colleen Kelley Therapy, LLC
Counselor, LMHC, CST
Seattle, WA 98105
I work primarily with clients in three areas: - Women in the medical profession (not only doctors, but medical adjacent individuals) - Relationships in need of care (I am an AASECT certified sex therapist) - People experiencing depression or anxiety I've specialized in helping those whose lives aren't where they want them to be. I'm here to tackle hard topics with safe, honest, conversations. Let's address the things which you've been thinking about for a long time but aren't sure what to do with or where to go. Life truly can be better - less stressful, more satisfying! I can help!
I work primarily with clients in three areas: - Women in the medical profession (not only doctors, but medical adjacent individuals) - Relationships in need of care (I am an AASECT certified sex therapist) - People experiencing depression or anxiety I've specialized in helping those whose lives aren't where they want them to be. I'm here to tackle hard topics with safe, honest, conversations. Let's address the things which you've been thinking about for a long time but aren't sure what to do with or where to go. Life truly can be better - less stressful, more satisfying! I can help!
(206) 984-3922 View (206) 984-3922
Photo of Jael Weinberg, Counselor, MA, LMHC, ATR
Jael Weinberg
Counselor, MA, LMHC, ATR
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Do you struggle to understand your feelings and communicate effectively with others? Would you like to be more in touch with your emotions and express yourself more authentically? I specialize in working with men seeking to redefine their relationship with shame and vulnerability. As your therapist, I will help you identify and utilize the strengths you already have in order to work through whatever issue has made you click on this page today. Many of my clients are “creatives” – people who engage with the world in a creative and exploratory way. Together, we can utilize your creativity to successfully reach your therapeutic goals.
Do you struggle to understand your feelings and communicate effectively with others? Would you like to be more in touch with your emotions and express yourself more authentically? I specialize in working with men seeking to redefine their relationship with shame and vulnerability. As your therapist, I will help you identify and utilize the strengths you already have in order to work through whatever issue has made you click on this page today. Many of my clients are “creatives” – people who engage with the world in a creative and exploratory way. Together, we can utilize your creativity to successfully reach your therapeutic goals.
(206) 207-0197 View (206) 207-0197
Photo of Honor Weihe, Counselor, LMHCA
Honor Weihe
Counselor, LMHCA
Seattle, WA 98105
Accepting new clients! We are so busy taking care of others that we often forget to make time for ourselves. We tend to push through tough times without reflection and stress piles up so high it can feel unmanageable. My goal as your counselor is to help you prioritize your well-being and cultivate a habit for processing what you are experiencing. I offer a meaningful space for sharing that is nonjudgemental and confidential. Sometimes it's hard to share with family and friends. I provide tools for improving communication, coping skills for school/life/work challenges and routines for self-care that put your well-being first.
Accepting new clients! We are so busy taking care of others that we often forget to make time for ourselves. We tend to push through tough times without reflection and stress piles up so high it can feel unmanageable. My goal as your counselor is to help you prioritize your well-being and cultivate a habit for processing what you are experiencing. I offer a meaningful space for sharing that is nonjudgemental and confidential. Sometimes it's hard to share with family and friends. I provide tools for improving communication, coping skills for school/life/work challenges and routines for self-care that put your well-being first.
(206) 752-3119 View (206) 752-3119
Photo of Devon Spencer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Devon Spencer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Seattle, WA 98105
I work with children, adolescents, and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma/PTSD, OCD, and LGBTQ+ identity. In addition to providing talk therapy, I am a community educator with a background in sexual health and creating LGBTQ+ affirming spaces.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma/PTSD, OCD, and LGBTQ+ identity. In addition to providing talk therapy, I am a community educator with a background in sexual health and creating LGBTQ+ affirming spaces.
(206) 829-6364 View (206) 829-6364
Photo of Robert F Hirsch - Hirsch Counseling & Consulting, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hirsch Counseling & Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Seattle, WA 98105
I've over 30 years experience helping couples and individuals with relationship issues, depression, sexual issues, including porn and sex addiction, and stress management. I have a holistic approach, helping clients examine what they do from when they awake to when they go to bed - what is helpful for their growth and well-being and what would be a better way to handle the challenges of their lives. Life is very challenging. It can be a hard school. Give yourself the gift of receiving compassionate, straightforward guidance.
I've over 30 years experience helping couples and individuals with relationship issues, depression, sexual issues, including porn and sex addiction, and stress management. I have a holistic approach, helping clients examine what they do from when they awake to when they go to bed - what is helpful for their growth and well-being and what would be a better way to handle the challenges of their lives. Life is very challenging. It can be a hard school. Give yourself the gift of receiving compassionate, straightforward guidance.
(844) 938-0994 View (844) 938-0994
Photo of Cassady Kintner - Cassady Kintner PLLC, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, MDFT
Cassady Kintner PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, MDFT
4 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98105
I am passionate about helping people with complex, highly demanding medical conditions, particularly diabetes, to face the emotional and behavioral challenges that so often accompany chronic health problems. I also enjoy working with 15+ teens and young women struggling with feelings of being "too much" and still "not enough". There is hope, and I can help you overcome frustration and discouragement to find peace, balance and a sense of purpose. You are not alone, and you don't have to do this alone.
I am passionate about helping people with complex, highly demanding medical conditions, particularly diabetes, to face the emotional and behavioral challenges that so often accompany chronic health problems. I also enjoy working with 15+ teens and young women struggling with feelings of being "too much" and still "not enough". There is hope, and I can help you overcome frustration and discouragement to find peace, balance and a sense of purpose. You are not alone, and you don't have to do this alone.
(206) 202-6615 View (206) 202-6615
Photo of Perry Firth, Psychologist, PhD, EdS
Perry Firth
Psychologist, PhD, EdS
Seattle, WA 98105
The clients I work with often feel different in some way, either because of neurodivergence, trauma, giftedness, or intense anxiety. Simply put, they process the world differently. The parents I see are doing their best to support their children's self-regulation even as they manage their own confusion and fatigue. They are looking for a guide rather than endless parenting blogs. My young adult clients are looking for ways to manage self-criticism, anxiety, and perfectionism. Frequently, they are processing trauma, striving to develop a balanced sense of self, and learning how to navigate relationships.
The clients I work with often feel different in some way, either because of neurodivergence, trauma, giftedness, or intense anxiety. Simply put, they process the world differently. The parents I see are doing their best to support their children's self-regulation even as they manage their own confusion and fatigue. They are looking for a guide rather than endless parenting blogs. My young adult clients are looking for ways to manage self-criticism, anxiety, and perfectionism. Frequently, they are processing trauma, striving to develop a balanced sense of self, and learning how to navigate relationships.
(206) 337-6381 View (206) 337-6381
Photo of Tiffany Biljum, Counselor, MA, MLIS, LMHC
Tiffany Biljum
Counselor, MA, MLIS, LMHC
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
I believe we're all whole and naturally seek balance. Unfortunately, emotional wounds and traumas can leave us feeling disconnected and unwell. In our work together, we'll welcome every part of you with curiosity and compassion. We’ll tap into your innate wisdom and healing capacity as we heal the parts of you that are wounded or stuck. I'll help you understand how and why your nervous system shapes your experience, so you can learn to care for it and in doing so, reshape your story. We'll map out an individualized plan for your unique system with practices to decrease stress and increase wellbeing.
I believe we're all whole and naturally seek balance. Unfortunately, emotional wounds and traumas can leave us feeling disconnected and unwell. In our work together, we'll welcome every part of you with curiosity and compassion. We’ll tap into your innate wisdom and healing capacity as we heal the parts of you that are wounded or stuck. I'll help you understand how and why your nervous system shapes your experience, so you can learn to care for it and in doing so, reshape your story. We'll map out an individualized plan for your unique system with practices to decrease stress and increase wellbeing.
View
Photo of Jill Seo, Counselor, LMHC
Jill Seo
Counselor, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98105
I believe therapy is a collaborative process where narratives can be explored and embodied, and placed within a cultural context to support healing, growth, and liberation. I have experience working with adults experiencing depression, trauma, anxiety, complex racial and ethnic identity work, grief, separation & loss, and life transitions. My therapeutic approach is client centered and informed by an integrative orientation based upon my training background in intersectional feminist therapy, existential therapy, and relational cultural theory.
I believe therapy is a collaborative process where narratives can be explored and embodied, and placed within a cultural context to support healing, growth, and liberation. I have experience working with adults experiencing depression, trauma, anxiety, complex racial and ethnic identity work, grief, separation & loss, and life transitions. My therapeutic approach is client centered and informed by an integrative orientation based upon my training background in intersectional feminist therapy, existential therapy, and relational cultural theory.
(206) 203-1911 View (206) 203-1911
Photo of Alison Prevost, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Alison Prevost
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Seattle, WA 98105
I enjoy working with people from all walks of life and with diverse backgrounds to address issues of depression, anxiety/stress, ADHD, trauma, relationship struggles, and adjustment to life changes. I have particular interest in late teen/young adult development, trauma recovery and growth, and supporting those who work in other “helping” professions (healthcare, childcare, education, etc). I am honored and humbled by the opportunity to share in each person’s journey, providing encouragement, asking questions, and helping them identify and connect with what adds value/meaning to their lives.
I enjoy working with people from all walks of life and with diverse backgrounds to address issues of depression, anxiety/stress, ADHD, trauma, relationship struggles, and adjustment to life changes. I have particular interest in late teen/young adult development, trauma recovery and growth, and supporting those who work in other “helping” professions (healthcare, childcare, education, etc). I am honored and humbled by the opportunity to share in each person’s journey, providing encouragement, asking questions, and helping them identify and connect with what adds value/meaning to their lives.
(206) 460-1714 View (206) 460-1714
Photo of Mary C Smith, Counselor, LMHC
Mary C Smith
Counselor, LMHC
Online Only
In therapy I connect with you in a deep way to empower you in your struggles. Most of us hope to connect with others in an intimate way and to have an impact on the world. I believe we internalize ways of relating in childhood and this informs the ways in which we relate with others in the present. The therapeutic relationship can be a safe place to see more clearly who we are in order that we might be freed to make different and conscious choices. This awareness can help you to know yourself more, to live an intentional life and have meaningful impact on the world.
In therapy I connect with you in a deep way to empower you in your struggles. Most of us hope to connect with others in an intimate way and to have an impact on the world. I believe we internalize ways of relating in childhood and this informs the ways in which we relate with others in the present. The therapeutic relationship can be a safe place to see more clearly who we are in order that we might be freed to make different and conscious choices. This awareness can help you to know yourself more, to live an intentional life and have meaningful impact on the world.
(425) 270-2527 View (425) 270-2527
Photo of A Levine-Ward, Counselor, LMHC
A Levine-Ward
Counselor, LMHC
Seattle, WA 98105
Therapy begins with safety, connection, and communication, fostered through a respectful and nonjudgmental relationship. In sessions, I will be collaborative, flexible, and open, using empowerment and coping skills to help you stay present and authentic. My integrative approach incorporates narrative, feminist, social justice, evidence-based, and trauma-informed methods. I specialize in sexual orientation, gender transition, BDSM/kink, alternative relationships, sex work, trauma, microaggressive trauma, death and dying, substance abuse, disordered eating, and body positivity.
Therapy begins with safety, connection, and communication, fostered through a respectful and nonjudgmental relationship. In sessions, I will be collaborative, flexible, and open, using empowerment and coping skills to help you stay present and authentic. My integrative approach incorporates narrative, feminist, social justice, evidence-based, and trauma-informed methods. I specialize in sexual orientation, gender transition, BDSM/kink, alternative relationships, sex work, trauma, microaggressive trauma, death and dying, substance abuse, disordered eating, and body positivity.
(425) 600-3301 View (425) 600-3301
Photo of Naoko Nakano Brown, Counselor, PhD, LMHC, NCC
Naoko Nakano Brown
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, NCC
Seattle, WA 98105
Not accepting new clients
Wanting to make a change and move forward, but feeling stuck? It is often difficult to get a good grasp of your experience when you have a lot on your mind. Sometimes it gets in your way of a wish to change. It can be challenging to be kind and gentle to yourself as well as to your feelings at a time. These experiences often make one feels stuck. I believe, increasing awareness and understanding of experience(s) will help you to gain alternative perspectives that would help you to no longer feel stuck and/or afraid.
Wanting to make a change and move forward, but feeling stuck? It is often difficult to get a good grasp of your experience when you have a lot on your mind. Sometimes it gets in your way of a wish to change. It can be challenging to be kind and gentle to yourself as well as to your feelings at a time. These experiences often make one feels stuck. I believe, increasing awareness and understanding of experience(s) will help you to gain alternative perspectives that would help you to no longer feel stuck and/or afraid.
(206) 257-2701 View (206) 257-2701

See more therapy options for 98105

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in 98105

600+

Average cost per session

$160

Therapists in 98105 who prioritize treating:

94% Anxiety
86% Depression
74% Self Esteem
70% Relationship Issues
68% Trauma and PTSD
67% Stress
65% Life Transitions

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

80% Premera Blue Cross
63% Regence
60% Aetna

How Therapists in 98105 see their clients

52% In Person and Online
48% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
20% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in 98105?

Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.

Learn more about how to find a therapist

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?

The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.

Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.

What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?

Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.

Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.

What type of therapy is right for me?

The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.

How much does therapy cost?

The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.

What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?

Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.

Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?

Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.

Is online therapy a good option?

Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.

Are therapy sessions confidential?

Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.